Lionel Messi penned a heartfelt message to his former Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta after the Spanish midfielder confirmed his retirement from the sport on Monday (Oct 7). The legendary player bows out of the game as one of the greatest players having won the FIFA World Cup, Euro (2008, 2012) and several club honours including the Champions League and La Liga. Iniesta shared a dressing room with Messi during their time together at the Catalonian club forming a deadly partnership.

<h2>Messi pays tribute to Iniesta</h2>

“One of the teammates with the most magic and one of those I enjoyed playing with the most. The ball is going to miss you, and so will all of us...I wish you the best always. You’re a phenomenon,” Messi's Instagram story read.

Messi and Iniesta shared the same dressing between 2005 and 2018 as the two greats won an unprecedented four Champions League titles during that time. They also won two trebles in 2009 and 2015 which highlighted their dominance. During Pep Guardiola's reign between 2008 and 2012, Barcelona were at the peak of its power as they reached the Champions League semifinal in all editions while winning the title in 2009 and 2011.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/explained-why-new-zealand-win-over-australia-favours-team-india-in-ongoing-womens-t20-world-cup-765415">Explained: How New Zealand's win over Australia favours Team India in ongoing Women's T20 World Cup</a>

They would win four La Liga titles during that period as Barcelona’s core team also dominated the Spanish national side. Iniesta’s biggest highlight during that period was the stoppage winner against Chelsea in the Champions League semifinal second leg at Stamford Bridge in 2009.

A year later he would create history by scoring the winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final against the Netherlands as he scripted history on multiple fronts. Iniesta was part of the Spanish side that won the Euro 2008 and Euro 2012. Interestingly, he was part of the Spanish side in 2012 which brought the concept of “False-9” while playing tiki-taka football with Barcelona at club level.

Lionel Messi penned a heartfelt message to his former Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta after the Spanish midfielder confirmed his retirement from the sport on Monday (Oct 7).

Lionel Messi penned a heartfelt message to his former Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta after the Spanish midfielder confirmed his retirement from the sport on Monday (Oct 7). The legendary player bows out of the game as one of the greatest players having won the FIFA World Cup, Euro (2008, 2012) and several club honours including the Champions League and La Liga. Iniesta shared a dressing room with Messi during their time together at the Catalonian club forming a deadly partnership. Messi pays tribute to Iniesta “One of the teammates with the most magic and one of those I enjoyed playing with the most. The ball is going to miss you, and so will all of us...I wish you the best always. You’re a phenomenon,” Messi's Instagram story read. Messi and Iniesta shared the same dressing between 2005 and 2018 as the two greats won an unprecedented four Champions League titles during that time. They also won two trebles in 2009 and 2015 which highlighted their dominance. During Pep Guardiola's reign between 2008 and 2012, Barcelona were at the peak of its power as they reached the Champions League semifinal in all editions while winning the title in 2009 and 2011. ALSO READ | Explained: How New Zealand's win over Australia favours Team India in ongoing Women's T20 World Cup They would win four La Liga titles during that period as Barcelona’s core team also dominated the Spanish national side. Iniesta’s biggest highlight during that period was the stoppage winner against Chelsea in the Champions League semifinal second leg at Stamford Bridge in 2009. A year later he would create history by scoring the winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final against the Netherlands as he scripted history on multiple fronts. Iniesta was part of the Spanish side that won the Euro 2008 and Euro 2012. Interestingly, he was part of the Spanish side in 2012 which brought the concept of “False-9” while playing tiki-taka football with Barcelona at club level.

Lionel Messi pens heartfelt note for Andres Iniesta as legendary Spanish midfielder confirms retirement

Andres Iniesta, one of the greatest, if not the greatest, midfielders of all time, has announced his retirement date, per football transfer news king Fabrizio Romano. The former Spain and Barcelona great, 40, vows to draw curtains on his decorated career on October 8, his jersey number throughout his career.

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🚨🇪🇸 Andrés Iniesta has decided to retire from professional football. 
 
It will be announced on October 8, his number since day one — as <a href="https://twitter.com/relevo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@relevo</a> reported. 
 
Legend of the game. Don Andrés. ❤️‍🩹🪄 <a href="https://t.co/02loVWTQ19">pic.twitter.com/02loVWTQ19</a>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1841053229783674904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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A Las Masia product, Iniesta made his FC Barcelona debut on December 21, 2022, against Mallorca in La Liga, a game Barca won 4-0. The midfielder didn’t take long before emerging as the future superstar in the team flooded with legends. Alongside his former teammate, friend and FCB manager, Xavi Hernandez, Iniesta won plenty of accolades at Barcelona.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/phil-foden-is-going-to-be-back-pep-guardiola-backs-misfiring-man-city-star-ahead-of-champions-league-clash-763513">'Phil Foden is going to be back': Pep Guardiola backs misfiring Man City star ahead of Champions League clash</a>

Iniesta represented the La Liga giants in 674 matches across all competitions, scoring 57 times and assisting 135 times.

While the football world remembers Iniesta for countless reasons, not to forget his injury-time winner against the Netherlands in the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final in South Africa that helped Spain lift the title, Iniesta’s jersey number 8 holds a special place in Blaugrana history.

However, after he decided to part ways with the FCB, where he won four Champions League titles, nine LaLiga titles, six Copa del Rey trophies, three FIFA Club World Cups, three UEFA Super Cups, and seven Spanish Super Cups, Iniesta moved to Japan to play for Vissel Kobe.&nbsp;

At his new club, he scored 26 goals and assisted 25 times in 134 appearances before switching bases again to the United Arab Emirates in 2023 to play for the Emirates Club.

Iniesta, meanwhile, was always more than these numbers and accolades, as his vision, elegance, craft and ability to do unthinkable stuff on the football field set him apart from the others.

Spain’s greatest ever teased fans on social media about his upcoming announcement, saying, “COMING SOON. 8, 10, 24,”; however, it’s now confirmed that he will hang his boots come October 8.

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COMING SOON🔜8️⃣🔟2️⃣4️⃣ <a href="https://t.co/H0eaSKkTwU">pic.twitter.com/H0eaSKkTwU</a>
— Andrés Iniesta (@andresiniesta8) <a href="https://twitter.com/andresiniesta8/status/1841022051420709315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

Andres Iniesta, one of the greatest, if not the greatest, midfielders of all time, has announced his retirement date, per football transfer news king Fabrizio Romano.

Andres Iniesta, one of the greatest, if not the greatest, midfielders of all time, has announced his retirement date, per football transfer news king Fabrizio Romano. The former Spain and Barcelona great, 40, vows to draw curtains on his decorated career on October 8, his jersey number throughout his career. 🚨🇪🇸 Andrés Iniesta has decided to retire from professional football. It will be announced on October 8, his number since day one — as @relevo reported. Legend of the game. Don Andrés. ❤️‍🩹🪄 pic.twitter.com/02loVWTQ19 — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 1, 2024 × A Las Masia product, Iniesta made his FC Barcelona debut on December 21, 2022, against Mallorca in La Liga, a game Barca won 4-0. The midfielder didn’t take long before emerging as the future superstar in the team flooded with legends. Alongside his former teammate, friend and FCB manager, Xavi Hernandez, Iniesta won plenty of accolades at Barcelona. ALSO READ: 'Phil Foden is going to be back': Pep Guardiola backs misfiring Man City star ahead of Champions League clash Iniesta represented the La Liga giants in 674 matches across all competitions, scoring 57 times and assisting 135 times. While the football world remembers Iniesta for countless reasons, not to forget his injury-time winner against the Netherlands in the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final in South Africa that helped Spain lift the title, Iniesta’s jersey number 8 holds a special place in Blaugrana history. However, after he decided to part ways with the FCB, where he won four Champions League titles, nine LaLiga titles, six Copa del Rey trophies, three FIFA Club World Cups, three UEFA Super Cups, and seven Spanish Super Cups, Iniesta moved to Japan to play for Vissel Kobe. At his new club, he scored 26 goals and assisted 25 times in 134 appearances before switching bases again to the United Arab Emirates in 2023 to play for the Emirates Club. Iniesta, meanwhile, was always more than these numbers and accolades, as his vision, elegance, craft and ability to do unthinkable stuff on the football field set him apart from the others. Spain’s greatest ever teased fans on social media about his upcoming announcement, saying, “COMING SOON. 8, 10, 24,”; however, it’s now confirmed that he will hang his boots come October 8. COMING SOON🔜8️⃣🔟2️⃣4️⃣ pic.twitter.com/H0eaSKkTwU — Andrés Iniesta (@andresiniesta8) October 1, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Spain and Barcelona great Andres Iniesta announces retirement date, to draw curtains on decorated career

Barcelona icon Andres Iniesta announced his intention to depart from Japanese club Vissel Kobe ahead of schedule, yet expressing his determination to keep playing aged 39.

Andres Iniesta to leave Japanese club Vissel Kobe

Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta in top 10 world's highest-paid footballers

Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta celebrated his 37th birthday on Tuesday by signing a contract extension that will keep him at J-League side Vissel Kobe for two more years.

The former Barcelona midfield maestro joined Kobe in 2018 in a deal worth a reported $30 million a year and recently recovered from a serious thigh injury.

"I will continue on my quest to make Vissel Kobe a stronger club," said the World Cup-winning midfielder, speaking through a Japanese translator.

"I am determined to contribute as much as possible to bring this team to a higher level," he added sitting alongside Kobe's tech-billionaire owner Hiroshi Mikitani.

Iniesta's debut at Kobe in July 2018 ended with an embarrassing home defeat, but he helped lead the team to their first Japanese Super Cup title in 2020.

Iniesta has enjoyed huge popularity in Japan with analysts estimating he has generated more than $100 million in ticket sales and merchandising revenue. He has appeared in TV commercials for Japanese sake and mobile phone services.

Named Kobe's captain in April 2019 after a shake-up at the club, Iniesta was sidelined for several months after he suffered a ruptured tendon in his right thigh last December.

Following surgery in Barcelona, he was back training in April before returning to action in the J-League this month.

Widely considered one of the most gifted midfielders of all time, he scored the winning goal as Spain won the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, and he was a key member of the European Championship-winning side's of 2008 and 2012.

Iniesta was the driving force behind four Champions League wins with Barcelona and helped the Catalan club secure domestic trebles in 2009 and 2015.&nbsp;

He also won nine La Liga titles, two European Super Cups and three FIFA Club World Cups, leaving Barcelona as the most decorated Spanish player of all time, with more than 30 trophies for club and country.

His decision to join Kobe after 22 years at Barcelona, 16 of them as a first team player, was seen as a coup for Japanese football, which had been struggling to attract big names tempted by cash-rich Chinese clubs in the twilight of their careers.

Kobe owner Mikitani said Iniesta's decision to stay will help the team's ambition to be the top club in Asia while elevating the standard of football in Japan.

Iniesta "has not just improved Vissel's status, but he has improved the global recognition of the J-League,"&nbsp;Mikitani said.

Iniesta said he wanted to stay engaged with Vissel Kobe once his playing days were over, although he did not say in what capacity.

Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta celebrated his 37th birthday on Tuesday by signing a contract extension that will keep him at J-League side Vissel Kobe for two more years.

Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta celebrated his 37th birthday on Tuesday by signing a contract extension that will keep him at J-League side Vissel Kobe for two more years. The former Barcelona midfield maestro joined Kobe in 2018 in a deal worth a reported $30 million a year and recently recovered from a serious thigh injury. "I will continue on my quest to make Vissel Kobe a stronger club," said the World Cup-winning midfielder, speaking through a Japanese translator. "I am determined to contribute as much as possible to bring this team to a higher level," he added sitting alongside Kobe's tech-billionaire owner Hiroshi Mikitani. Iniesta's debut at Kobe in July 2018 ended with an embarrassing home defeat, but he helped lead the team to their first Japanese Super Cup title in 2020. Iniesta has enjoyed huge popularity in Japan with analysts estimating he has generated more than $100 million in ticket sales and merchandising revenue. He has appeared in TV commercials for Japanese sake and mobile phone services. Named Kobe's captain in April 2019 after a shake-up at the club, Iniesta was sidelined for several months after he suffered a ruptured tendon in his right thigh last December. Following surgery in Barcelona, he was back training in April before returning to action in the J-League this month. Widely considered one of the most gifted midfielders of all time, he scored the winning goal as Spain won the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, and he was a key member of the European Championship-winning side's of 2008 and 2012. Iniesta was the driving force behind four Champions League wins with Barcelona and helped the Catalan club secure domestic trebles in 2009 and 2015. He also won nine La Liga titles, two European Super Cups and three FIFA Club World Cups, leaving Barcelona as the most decorated Spanish player of all time, with more than 30 trophies for club and country. His decision to join Kobe after 22 years at Barcelona, 16 of them as a first team player, was seen as a coup for Japanese football, which had been struggling to attract big names tempted by cash-rich Chinese clubs in the twilight of their careers. Kobe owner Mikitani said Iniesta's decision to stay will help the team's ambition to be the top club in Asia while elevating the standard of football in Japan. Iniesta "has not just improved Vissel's status, but he has improved the global recognition of the J-League," Mikitani said. Iniesta said he wanted to stay engaged with Vissel Kobe once his playing days were over, although he did not say in what capacity.

Spain legend Iniesta to stay with Japan's Kobe for two more years

Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents.&nbsp;

Iniesta recalls his experience with the illness in a Rakuten TV documentary, 'Andres Iniesta - The Unexpected Hero', which was released on Thursday and covers his move to Japanese side Vissel Kobe in 2018.&nbsp;

After winning the Champions League under Pep Guardiola in 2009, Iniesta was battling injury and then hit by the death of his friend Dani Jarque, the 26-year-old Espanyol defender who suffered a heart attack.&nbsp;

"The days pass and you realise you're not improving, you don't feel good, you're not yourself. Everything clouds over and goes dark," Iniesta said.&nbsp;

On Jarque's death, Iniesta added: "That was like a body blow, something powerful that knocked me down again and I was pretty low, clearly because I wasn't very well."&nbsp;

Iniesta's depression is described by those closest to him, including his mother Maria Lujan and father Jose Antonio.&nbsp;

"I noticed he wasn't well one night when we were sleeping downstairs and he came down and said, 'mum can I sleep here with you?'" Maria said. "Then the world came down on my head."&nbsp;

Jose Antonio said: "Our 25 year-old son coming down at midnight and wanting to sleep with his parents means he can't be well. He said, 'I'm not well dad'. I said, 'what's wrong?' 'I don't know, I don't feel well.'"&nbsp;

Iniesta's father admitted he thought his son might have to take a break from football. "At one stage I thought he would have to stop because the most important thing was him," said Jose Antonio.

Iniesta began having sessions with psychologist Inma Puig, who said the Spaniard's recovery owed much to those around him, including Guardiola.&nbsp;

"Guardiola said this is the first time I've been in this situation as a coach," said Puig. "I remember he said, 'the most important thing now is Andres, the person not the player'."

"They're people and this is a very human thing which affects millions of people around the world," said Guardiola. "They have to know we are there for them."

"Guardiola tried to get him out of that bottomless pit he was in," said Iniesta's mother Maria.&nbsp;

Iniesta came through Barcelona's La Masia academy and went on to win nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues with the club.&nbsp;

He also lifted the World Cup with Spain in 2010, after scoring the winning goal against the Netherlands in the final.&nbsp;

Despite receiving a hero's farewell from Barca, Iniesta hinted his relationship with the board influenced his decision to go to Japan.&nbsp;

"People at the club never imagined I could leave," Iniesta said. "It's like everything, in relationships if you don't discuss things at the right time there comes a time when there's no way back."&nbsp;

Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents.

Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents. Iniesta recalls his experience with the illness in a Rakuten TV documentary, 'Andres Iniesta - The Unexpected Hero', which was released on Thursday and covers his move to Japanese side Vissel Kobe in 2018. After winning the Champions League under Pep Guardiola in 2009, Iniesta was battling injury and then hit by the death of his friend Dani Jarque, the 26-year-old Espanyol defender who suffered a heart attack. "The days pass and you realise you're not improving, you don't feel good, you're not yourself. Everything clouds over and goes dark," Iniesta said. On Jarque's death, Iniesta added: "That was like a body blow, something powerful that knocked me down again and I was pretty low, clearly because I wasn't very well." Iniesta's depression is described by those closest to him, including his mother Maria Lujan and father Jose Antonio. "I noticed he wasn't well one night when we were sleeping downstairs and he came down and said, 'mum can I sleep here with you?'" Maria said. "Then the world came down on my head." Jose Antonio said: "Our 25 year-old son coming down at midnight and wanting to sleep with his parents means he can't be well. He said, 'I'm not well dad'. I said, 'what's wrong?' 'I don't know, I don't feel well.'" Iniesta's father admitted he thought his son might have to take a break from football. "At one stage I thought he would have to stop because the most important thing was him," said Jose Antonio. Iniesta began having sessions with psychologist Inma Puig, who said the Spaniard's recovery owed much to those around him, including Guardiola. "Guardiola said this is the first time I've been in this situation as a coach," said Puig. "I remember he said, 'the most important thing now is Andres, the person not the player'." "They're people and this is a very human thing which affects millions of people around the world," said Guardiola. "They have to know we are there for them." "Guardiola tried to get him out of that bottomless pit he was in," said Iniesta's mother Maria. Iniesta came through Barcelona's La Masia academy and went on to win nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues with the club. He also lifted the World Cup with Spain in 2010, after scoring the winning goal against the Netherlands in the final. Despite receiving a hero's farewell from Barca, Iniesta hinted his relationship with the board influenced his decision to go to Japan. "People at the club never imagined I could leave," Iniesta said. "It's like everything, in relationships if you don't discuss things at the right time there comes a time when there's no way back."

'Everything clouds over and goes dark' - Iniesta on depression at Barcelona

Carles Perez scored his first two goals for Barcelona as the Spanish giants won 2-0 against a Vissel Kobe side featuring Andres Iniesta, a legend of the Catalan club.

As Kobe's Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper were all reunited with their former team, it was Perez who stole the limelight with a top-class double.

The 21-year-old, a product of Barcelona's academy, played a one-two inside the box and nutmegged the goalkeeper for his first goal, and fired a stunning left-footer for his second in the dying minutes.

Iniesta had his chances and 28,000 fans sighed their frustration as he put a fierce shot just wide.

"It was my first goal for Barcelona and I'm glad to score even two," Perez said.

"It's been my dream to score goals for this great team since my childhood," he added.

The win wrapped up Barcelona's pre-season friendlies in Japan following their 2-1 loss to Chelsea earlier this week.

Carles Perez scored his first two goals for Barcelona as the Spanish giants won 2-0 against a Vissel Kobe side featuring Andres Iniesta, a legend of the Catalan club.

Carles Perez scored his first two goals for Barcelona as the Spanish giants won 2-0 against a Vissel Kobe side featuring Andres Iniesta, a legend of the Catalan club. As Kobe's Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper were all reunited with their former team, it was Perez who stole the limelight with a top-class double. The 21-year-old, a product of Barcelona's academy, played a one-two inside the box and nutmegged the goalkeeper for his first goal, and fired a stunning left-footer for his second in the dying minutes. Iniesta had his chances and 28,000 fans sighed their frustration as he put a fierce shot just wide. "It was my first goal for Barcelona and I'm glad to score even two," Perez said. "It's been my dream to score goals for this great team since my childhood," he added. The win wrapped up Barcelona's pre-season friendlies in Japan following their 2-1 loss to Chelsea earlier this week.

Carles Perez double as Barcelona beat Iniesta's Vissel Kobe 2-0

Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta is looking forward to taking on his former teammates when his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-will-be-weird-to-play-against-andres-iniesta-says-ivan-rakitic-237923">Vissel Kobe meets Barcelona</a> this weekend for a friendly, saying Friday the face-off will be "an honour."

The match Saturday in the Japanese city of Kobe will be a reunion of sorts, with Barcelona's current line-up facing ex-teammates Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper, all now Vissel players.

It will be the first time Iniesta has met his former team on the pitch.

"We all feel that it is such an honour to play Barca," Iniesta told reporters through a Japanese translator.

"The team, Barcelona, is special... It will be a very important match for us," he said.

World Cup-winning Iniesta, who lifted 32 major trophies with Barcelona, signed for Kobe last May in a historic J-League deal worth a reported $30 million a year. The 34-year-old was appointed the team's captain in April.

The friendly is Barca's last match in Japan before they head home, and midfielder Sergio Busquets said the chance to meet Iniesta on the pitch "means a lot" to the players.

"Now he is in Japan and having new experiences. But it does not change the fact that he is a very important friend still," Busquets said.

"Now I am giving him these kind words, but tomorrow on the pitch I won't be able to be like this. We will fight with full strength."

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🇯🇵 MATCH PREVIEW: Kobe’s searing heat 🔥 and a warm 🔵🔴 reunion with <a href="https://twitter.com/andresiniesta8?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andresiniesta8</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Guaje7Villa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@guaje7villa</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/SergiSamper?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SergiSamper</a>! 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/Bo644LO4o9">pic.twitter.com/Bo644LO4o9</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1154720862416887808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The match comes after Chelsea defeated Barcelona 2-1 in their friendly in Saitama north of Tokyo earlier this week in a game that saw the unofficial debuts of World Cup-winning French striker Antoine Griezmann and former Ajax midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

Manager Ernesto Valverde said he wanted to see the new arrivals getting used to playing with the team and hoped for a better result for Saturday's match.

"I'm sure you saw the game the other day, in which they both played. I want them to play better than that with other players," he said.

Defender Gerard Pique will not play on Saturday as a precaution due to discomfort in his left thigh, Valverde said.

Iniesta's signing was viewed as a timely boost to the J-League, which once attracted luminaries such as Brazilian great Zico and former England striker Gary Lineker when it began in 1993 but has struggled to tempt marquee players in recent years.

Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta is looking forward to taking on his former teammates when his Vissel Kobe meets Barcelona this weekend for a friendly, saying Friday the face-off will be "an honour.

Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta is looking forward to taking on his former teammates when his Vissel Kobe meets Barcelona this weekend for a friendly, saying Friday the face-off will be "an honour." The match Saturday in the Japanese city of Kobe will be a reunion of sorts, with Barcelona's current line-up facing ex-teammates Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper, all now Vissel players. It will be the first time Iniesta has met his former team on the pitch. "We all feel that it is such an honour to play Barca," Iniesta told reporters through a Japanese translator. "The team, Barcelona, is special... It will be a very important match for us," he said. World Cup-winning Iniesta, who lifted 32 major trophies with Barcelona, signed for Kobe last May in a historic J-League deal worth a reported $30 million a year. The 34-year-old was appointed the team's captain in April. The friendly is Barca's last match in Japan before they head home, and midfielder Sergio Busquets said the chance to meet Iniesta on the pitch "means a lot" to the players. "Now he is in Japan and having new experiences. But it does not change the fact that he is a very important friend still," Busquets said. "Now I am giving him these kind words, but tomorrow on the pitch I won't be able to be like this. We will fight with full strength." 🇯🇵 MATCH PREVIEW: Kobe’s searing heat 🔥 and a warm 🔵🔴 reunion with @andresiniesta8, @guaje7villa and @SergiSamper! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Bo644LO4o9 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 26, 2019 × The match comes after Chelsea defeated Barcelona 2-1 in their friendly in Saitama north of Tokyo earlier this week in a game that saw the unofficial debuts of World Cup-winning French striker Antoine Griezmann and former Ajax midfielder Frenkie de Jong. Manager Ernesto Valverde said he wanted to see the new arrivals getting used to playing with the team and hoped for a better result for Saturday's match. "I'm sure you saw the game the other day, in which they both played. I want them to play better than that with other players," he said. Defender Gerard Pique will not play on Saturday as a precaution due to discomfort in his left thigh, Valverde said. Iniesta's signing was viewed as a timely boost to the J-League, which once attracted luminaries such as Brazilian great Zico and former England striker Gary Lineker when it began in 1993 but has struggled to tempt marquee players in recent years.

Andres Iniesta ready for face-off against ex-team Barcelona

Barcelona's Ivan Rakitic said to play&nbsp;against former Barca captain Andres Iniesta will be "little weird" as the Spanish giants are set to face Vissel Kobe of J&nbsp;League in a pre-season friendly.&nbsp;

"It will be very special to play against them, even a little weird because until recently they have been part of the team and now we will have to face them and both parts, we'll have enjoy the game," said Rakitic while addressing the media. &nbsp;

"Playing against Andres, especially, it will be weird for me because he is one of the best friends I have in football and now having to play against him, apart from all the quality he has and being friends, will be very special and hopefully I'll be able to enjoy a very special moment with him," he added.&nbsp;

On Monday, Barcelona trained ahead of their pre-season friendly against the Premier League club Chelsea in the Rakuten Cup.&nbsp;

After Chelsea, Barcelona will face&nbsp;Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper of Vissel Kobe on Saturday (27th July).&nbsp;

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic accepts his days at the Nou Camp may be numbered, but for now he is concentrating on preparing for next season with the Spanish champions but said the rumours do not bother him.&nbsp;

After the arrival of Frenkie de Jong from Ajax and 31-year-old Sergio Busquets signing a new five-year deal last year, Barcelona’s midfield is looking a little crowded and the Croat could be the man shipped out this summer.&nbsp;

“Does it bother me? No it doesn’t, I have to understand soccer in general works like that,” Rakitic said at a news conference in Tokyo when asked about any impending move.

Barcelona will start their La Liga campaign against Athletic Club Bilbao on Saturday, 17th August.&nbsp;

Barcelona's Ivan Rakitic said to play against former Barca captain Andres Iniesta will be "little weird" as the Spanish giants are set to face Vissel Kobe of J League in a pre-season friendly.

Barcelona's Ivan Rakitic said to play against former Barca captain Andres Iniesta will be "little weird" as the Spanish giants are set to face Vissel Kobe of J League in a pre-season friendly. "It will be very special to play against them, even a little weird because until recently they have been part of the team and now we will have to face them and both parts, we'll have enjoy the game," said Rakitic while addressing the media. "Playing against Andres, especially, it will be weird for me because he is one of the best friends I have in football and now having to play against him, apart from all the quality he has and being friends, will be very special and hopefully I'll be able to enjoy a very special moment with him," he added. On Monday, Barcelona trained ahead of their pre-season friendly against the Premier League club Chelsea in the Rakuten Cup. After Chelsea, Barcelona will face Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper of Vissel Kobe on Saturday (27th July). Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic accepts his days at the Nou Camp may be numbered, but for now he is concentrating on preparing for next season with the Spanish champions but said the rumours do not bother him. After the arrival of Frenkie de Jong from Ajax and 31-year-old Sergio Busquets signing a new five-year deal last year, Barcelona’s midfield is looking a little crowded and the Croat could be the man shipped out this summer. “Does it bother me? No it doesn’t, I have to understand soccer in general works like that,” Rakitic said at a news conference in Tokyo when asked about any impending move. Barcelona will start their La Liga campaign against Athletic Club Bilbao on Saturday, 17th August.

'It will be weird to play against Andres Iniesta,' says Ivan Rakitic

Fernando <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fernando-torres-spains-world-cup-winning-striker-announces-retirement-229179">Torres will hang up his boots</a> for good after taking on Andres Iniesta and David Villa in a J League match in August, the former Spain striker said on Sunday, having decided to retire before his body gives up on him.

The 35-year-old former Atletico Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea and AC Milan forward told a news conference that he would bring down the curtain on his career after his Sagan Tosu hosted the Vissel Kobe side of his fellow World Cup winners on August&nbsp;23.

"The reason is just personal," he said. "I feel that physically and mentally I'm coming to a stage, where the time when I will not able to perform at the level I want is approaching, and I don’t want to be there when it arrives.

"I don’t want to look back in a few years and see myself playing in a level I don’t want to, so it was an easy (decision)."

Torres, who scored the winning goal in the 2008 European Championship final before helping Spain win their first World Cup in 2010, said he would be returning home after his retirement but beyond that, his future plans were unclear.

"I think I need time to be away from daily football, it’s been so many years ... training every day and playing at the highest level every day," he added.

"So I just need time to spend with my family and think about the next step. I don’t know if it will be coaching or managing."

Torres scored more than 100 goals over two spells at Atletico Madrid and said he hoped that he could make his boyhood club part of his future at some stage.

"Atletico Madrid is my life so probably there will be a way for us to link up somehow in the future, but not immediately," he added.

"What I’d like to do with Atletico, if I have a chance to go back, will be something so big that I'll need training for it," he said.

"I'll need to study and understand perfectly how it works, so I will not be back just as a face on show. If I go back it will be a big role, to take the club to the next level."

Torres's time in Japan has not been an unqualified success and Sagan Tosu narrowly avoided relegation in his first season. They are currently bottom of the J.League with four wins from 16 matches.

Citing his pride at having scored the goal that kept Tosu up last season, Torres said he would do everything he could to help their cause before retiring and that he would continue to act as an advisor to the club board afterwards.

"I want to really (have) an intense last two months I'll give everything that is left inside of me to help the team to improve the current situation, which is not the best," he said.

The match against Iniesta and Villa's Vissel will kick off matchday 24 of the 31-round J.League on a Friday night at Tosu's home ground.

"I tried to find an iconic moment to play my final game and I guess that's perfect timing," Torres said.

"To say goodbye to football next to my dear friends is something that I could never imagine, and Japan is going to make it possible."

Fernando Torres will hang up his boots for good after taking on Andres Iniesta and David Villa in a J League match in August, the former Spain striker said on Sunday, having decided to retire before his body gives up on him.

Fernando Torres will hang up his boots for good after taking on Andres Iniesta and David Villa in a J League match in August, the former Spain striker said on Sunday, having decided to retire before his body gives up on him. The 35-year-old former Atletico Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea and AC Milan forward told a news conference that he would bring down the curtain on his career after his Sagan Tosu hosted the Vissel Kobe side of his fellow World Cup winners on August 23. "The reason is just personal," he said. "I feel that physically and mentally I'm coming to a stage, where the time when I will not able to perform at the level I want is approaching, and I don’t want to be there when it arrives. "I don’t want to look back in a few years and see myself playing in a level I don’t want to, so it was an easy (decision)." Torres, who scored the winning goal in the 2008 European Championship final before helping Spain win their first World Cup in 2010, said he would be returning home after his retirement but beyond that, his future plans were unclear. "I think I need time to be away from daily football, it’s been so many years ... training every day and playing at the highest level every day," he added. "So I just need time to spend with my family and think about the next step. I don’t know if it will be coaching or managing." Torres scored more than 100 goals over two spells at Atletico Madrid and said he hoped that he could make his boyhood club part of his future at some stage. "Atletico Madrid is my life so probably there will be a way for us to link up somehow in the future, but not immediately," he added. "What I’d like to do with Atletico, if I have a chance to go back, will be something so big that I'll need training for it," he said. "I'll need to study and understand perfectly how it works, so I will not be back just as a face on show. If I go back it will be a big role, to take the club to the next level." Torres's time in Japan has not been an unqualified success and Sagan Tosu narrowly avoided relegation in his first season. They are currently bottom of the J.League with four wins from 16 matches. Citing his pride at having scored the goal that kept Tosu up last season, Torres said he would do everything he could to help their cause before retiring and that he would continue to act as an advisor to the club board afterwards. "I want to really (have) an intense last two months I'll give everything that is left inside of me to help the team to improve the current situation, which is not the best," he said. The match against Iniesta and Villa's Vissel will kick off matchday 24 of the 31-round J.League on a Friday night at Tosu's home ground. "I tried to find an iconic moment to play my final game and I guess that's perfect timing," Torres said. "To say goodbye to football next to my dear friends is something that I could never imagine, and Japan is going to make it possible."

Fernando Torres to sign off after Japan reunion with Andres Iniesta and David Villa

Andres Iniesta looks poised to join Japan's Vissel Kobe after tweeting on Wednesday that he was going to his "new home" with his "friend" Hiroshi Mikitani, owner of the J-League club.

The 34-year-old Barcelona icon posted a photo of himself and Mikitani in what appeared to be a private jet, along with emojis of the Japanese flag and a football.

Iniesta, who famously scored the winning goal for Spain against the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final,&nbsp;was top of Mikitani's wishlist.

The billionaire businessman is also the founder and CEO of Rakuten, Barcelona's main sponsor, and had been personally involved in securing Iniesta's services, according to local media.

Iniesta announced last month that he would be leaving Barca at the end of the season, bringing an end to a 22-year association with the club.

The midfielder has enjoyed a glittering career, winning eight La Liga and four Champions League titles.&nbsp;

Social media lit up after Iniesta's tweet.

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Rumbo a mi nuevo hogar, con mi amigo <a href="https://twitter.com/hmikitani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hmikitani</a>...??⚽ ✈️ ? 
 
Heading to my new home, with my friend ??⚽ ✈️ ? <a href="https://t.co/xeXBw4GYfc">pic.twitter.com/xeXBw4GYfc</a>
— Andrés Iniesta (@andresiniesta8) <a href="https://twitter.com/andresiniesta8/status/999359516255793153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Many Japanese fans retweeted the photo of the player shaking hands with Mikitani and welcoming him to the country, while another user posted a cartoon meme of Iniesta dressed in a wizard's cloak and waving a wand.&nbsp;

Kobe currently sit sixth in the J-League first division standings after 15 games played, having finished ninth in the table last term.

If the move to Kobe is confirmed, Iniesta will join former Arsenal striker Lukas Podolski in the western Japanese port city after the German completed a move from Galatasaray last summer.

Danish legend Michael Laudrup, himself a former Barcelona fan favourite and one of Iniesta's boyhood heroes, also played for Vissel in 1996-97.

CHINA INTEREST 

Iniesta had also been linked to a move to Chinese Super League side Chongqing Lifan but they, like Vissel initially, denied the rumours.

If confirmed, the Spain legend's decision to choose Kobe would represent arguably Japanese football's biggest transfer coup with many top players now moving to cash-rich Chinese clubs in the twilight of their careers.

It would also come as a timely boost to the J-League, which used to attract luminaries such as Brazilian great Zico and former England star Gary Lineker when it began in 1993 but has struggled to attract marquee players in recent years.

Iniesta's departure from Barcelona drew strong tributes from the football world.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said the midfielder should have won the Ballon d'Or in 2010 for clinching the World Cup with Spain, when he was beaten to it by Lionel Messi.

"I think he really deserved to win the Ballon d'Or when he won his World Cup, he had an exceptional year and he finished the World Cup by winning it, by scoring (the winning goal in the final), so obviously that year he would have deserved it," Zidane said at the end of April.

It was the period when Iniesta was arguably at his best, as Barcelona won three consecutive league titles under Pep Guardiola, as well as the Champions League twice.

He is still going to play for Spain in this summer's World Cup before likely ending his international career.

The 34-year-old Barcelona icon posted a photo of himself and Mikitani in what appeared to be a private jet, along with emojis of the Japanese flag and a football.

Andres Iniesta looks poised to join Japan's Vissel Kobe after tweeting on Wednesday that he was going to his "new home" with his "friend" Hiroshi Mikitani, owner of the J-League club. The 34-year-old Barcelona icon posted a photo of himself and Mikitani in what appeared to be a private jet, along with emojis of the Japanese flag and a football. Iniesta, who famously scored the winning goal for Spain against the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final, was top of Mikitani's wishlist. The billionaire businessman is also the founder and CEO of Rakuten, Barcelona's main sponsor, and had been personally involved in securing Iniesta's services, according to local media. Iniesta announced last month that he would be leaving Barca at the end of the season, bringing an end to a 22-year association with the club. The midfielder has enjoyed a glittering career, winning eight La Liga and four Champions League titles. Social media lit up after Iniesta's tweet. Rumbo a mi nuevo hogar, con mi amigo @hmikitani...??⚽ ✈️ ? Heading to my new home, with my friend ??⚽ ✈️ ? pic.twitter.com/xeXBw4GYfc — Andrés Iniesta (@andresiniesta8) May 23, 2018 × Many Japanese fans retweeted the photo of the player shaking hands with Mikitani and welcoming him to the country, while another user posted a cartoon meme of Iniesta dressed in a wizard's cloak and waving a wand. Kobe currently sit sixth in the J-League first division standings after 15 games played, having finished ninth in the table last term. If the move to Kobe is confirmed, Iniesta will join former Arsenal striker Lukas Podolski in the western Japanese port city after the German completed a move from Galatasaray last summer. Danish legend Michael Laudrup, himself a former Barcelona fan favourite and one of Iniesta's boyhood heroes, also played for Vissel in 1996-97. CHINA INTEREST Iniesta had also been linked to a move to Chinese Super League side Chongqing Lifan but they, like Vissel initially, denied the rumours. If confirmed, the Spain legend's decision to choose Kobe would represent arguably Japanese football's biggest transfer coup with many top players now moving to cash-rich Chinese clubs in the twilight of their careers. It would also come as a timely boost to the J-League, which used to attract luminaries such as Brazilian great Zico and former England star Gary Lineker when it began in 1993 but has struggled to attract marquee players in recent years. Iniesta's departure from Barcelona drew strong tributes from the football world. Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said the midfielder should have won the Ballon d'Or in 2010 for clinching the World Cup with Spain, when he was beaten to it by Lionel Messi. "I think he really deserved to win the Ballon d'Or when he won his World Cup, he had an exceptional year and he finished the World Cup by winning it, by scoring (the winning goal in the final), so obviously that year he would have deserved it," Zidane said at the end of April. It was the period when Iniesta was arguably at his best, as Barcelona won three consecutive league titles under Pep Guardiola, as well as the Champions League twice. He is still going to play for Spain in this summer's World Cup before likely ending his international career.

​​​​​​​Iniesta off to 'new home' Japan with 'friend', owner of Vissel Kobe

Andres Iniesta waved goodbye to Barcelona on Sunday and his supposed successor scored the winner as Philippe Coutinho's superb strike sealed a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad.&nbsp

Iniesta, with a tear in his eye, walked off to a standing ovation from the Camp Nou when substituted in the second half, having unfastened his captain's armband and handed it to Lionel Messi.&nbsp

If Messi is to become Barca's new leader, Coutinho is the player marked out to assume Iniesta's creative responsibilities and it was perhaps fitting the Brazilian proved the difference on a night almost entirely devoted to his 34-year-old team-mate.&nbsp

After his number eight had come up on the fourth official's board, Iniesta first hugged Messi and then embraced the rest of his colleagues. He clapped the crowd, blew them a kiss, before exhaling and ducking into the dug-out.&nbsp

After 22 years at the club and 16 in the first team, Iniesta's 674 appearances for Barcelona is bettered only by Xavi Hernandez, who was also on the pitch before kick-off to join in the tributes.&nbsp

Real Sociedad welcomed Iniesta with a guard of honour while the crowd formed an impressive mosaic to spell out 'Infinit Iniesta' on the two sides of the Camp Nou, with an infinity symbol, doubling up as number eights, at the ends.&nbsp

A giant flag behind one of the goals read 'Gracies Per Tant', 'thank you for so much'.&nbsp

Iniesta exchanged pennants with Xabi Prieto, the 34-year-old midfielder who is also calling time after 15 years in the first team of Real Sociedad. Prieto came on in the 88th minute to great appreciation from the visiting support.&nbsp

There was also a football match to win and Barcelona's victory means they finish top of La Liga on 93 points, 14 ahead of their nearest rivals Atletico Madrid and 17 clear of Real.&nbsp

Dembele injury concern

The one blot on the night was an injury to Ousmane Dembele, who had to go off in the 53rd minute after sustaining an injury to his right foot towards the end of the first half.

Dembele was seen being handed an ice pack on the bench, with France now facing an anxious wait for the diagnosis before the start of the World Cup.

Ernesto Valverde stayed true to his word that he would rest Messi, who only came on for the final 23 minutes.

Early on, Gerard Pique miscued when left free at a corner and Ivan Rakitic headed wide but otherwise Real Sociedad were fairly comfortable in the first half.&nbsp

Nelson Semedo wanted a penalty after he was tripped by Alberto De La Bella and Luis Suarez wanted a harsher punishment when Raul Navas lunged in on Dembele.&nbsp

Navas, nowhere near the ball, caught Dembele's right foot and Suarez was booked for his complaints to referee Jose Munuera.&nbsp

Dembele finished the half but was taken off shortly after the interval as Denis Suarez came on to replace the French forward.&nbsp

Coutinho's goal came rather out of the blue but was no less impressive for the fact as he wiggled his way into space on the left of the penalty area and curled a trademark shot inside the far corner.&nbsp

That was his last significant contribution before being replaced by Messi, who almost set up a second only for Denis Suarez to squander the finish.&nbsp

Finally, Iniesta was replaced in the 82nd minute by Paco Alcacer and the fans did not stop chanting the veteran's name until the final whistle blew.&nbsp

Andres Iniesta waved goodbye to Barcelona on Sunday and his supposed successor scored the winner as Philippe Coutinho's superb strike sealed a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad

Andres Iniesta waved goodbye to Barcelona on Sunday and his supposed successor scored the winner as Philippe Coutinho's superb strike sealed a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad. Iniesta, with a tear in his eye, walked off to a standing ovation from the Camp Nou when substituted in the second half, having unfastened his captain's armband and handed it to Lionel Messi. If Messi is to become Barca's new leader, Coutinho is the player marked out to assume Iniesta's creative responsibilities and it was perhaps fitting the Brazilian proved the difference on a night almost entirely devoted to his 34-year-old team-mate. After his number eight had come up on the fourth official's board, Iniesta first hugged Messi and then embraced the rest of his colleagues. He clapped the crowd, blew them a kiss, before exhaling and ducking into the dug-out. After 22 years at the club and 16 in the first team, Iniesta's 674 appearances for Barcelona is bettered only by Xavi Hernandez, who was also on the pitch before kick-off to join in the tributes. Real Sociedad welcomed Iniesta with a guard of honour while the crowd formed an impressive mosaic to spell out 'Infinit Iniesta' on the two sides of the Camp Nou, with an infinity symbol, doubling up as number eights, at the ends. A giant flag behind one of the goals read 'Gracies Per Tant', 'thank you for so much'. Iniesta exchanged pennants with Xabi Prieto, the 34-year-old midfielder who is also calling time after 15 years in the first team of Real Sociedad. Prieto came on in the 88th minute to great appreciation from the visiting support. There was also a football match to win and Barcelona's victory means they finish top of La Liga on 93 points, 14 ahead of their nearest rivals Atletico Madrid and 17 clear of Real. Dembele injury concern The one blot on the night was an injury to Ousmane Dembele, who had to go off in the 53rd minute after sustaining an injury to his right foot towards the end of the first half. Dembele was seen being handed an ice pack on the bench, with France now facing an anxious wait for the diagnosis before the start of the World Cup. Ernesto Valverde stayed true to his word that he would rest Messi, who only came on for the final 23 minutes. Early on, Gerard Pique miscued when left free at a corner and Ivan Rakitic headed wide but otherwise Real Sociedad were fairly comfortable in the first half. Nelson Semedo wanted a penalty after he was tripped by Alberto De La Bella and Luis Suarez wanted a harsher punishment when Raul Navas lunged in on Dembele. Navas, nowhere near the ball, caught Dembele's right foot and Suarez was booked for his complaints to referee Jose Munuera. Dembele finished the half but was taken off shortly after the interval as Denis Suarez came on to replace the French forward. Coutinho's goal came rather out of the blue but was no less impressive for the fact as he wiggled his way into space on the left of the penalty area and curled a trademark shot inside the far corner. That was his last significant contribution before being replaced by Messi, who almost set up a second only for Denis Suarez to squander the finish. Finally, Iniesta was replaced in the 82nd minute by Paco Alcacer and the fans did not stop chanting the veteran's name until the final whistle blew.

Andres Iniesta bows out with Barca win thanks to brilliant Coutinho strike

Chinese Super League giants Chongqing Dangdai Lifan have denied move for Andres Iniesta. Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta announced recently that he will leave the club at the end of the season.

He has spent all his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 32 trophies for FC Barcelona.

From past few months, there were speculations that 33-year old might leave Barca and some Spanish media reported that he will move to a elite club Chongqing Dangdai Lifan of Chinese Super League.

The Chinese club also said that Iniesta wouldn't be joining "as a player" but left the door open to future cooperation with the midfielder, who has promotional and marketing links with the city.

"Our club will never violate the development prospects of Chinese football and we are determined to make due contributions to the healthy development of Chinese football," a statement said.

It added: "The other sports industry sections of our club's controlling shareholder have in-depth cooperation with Mr. Iniesta in sports brokerage, sports marketing, and youth training and education.

"We don't rule out that in the future there may be more in-depth cooperation between the two sides in the Chinese market, but this does not mean that Mr. Iniesta will join the club as a player."

Spanish media reported that the Barcelona captain could now be headed for Japan or Australia.

Chinese Super League giants Chongqing Dangdai Lifan have denied move for Andres Iniesta

Chinese Super League giants Chongqing Dangdai Lifan have denied move for Andres Iniesta. Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta announced recently that he will leave the club at the end of the season. He has spent all his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 32 trophies for FC Barcelona. From past few months, there were speculations that 33-year old might leave Barca and some Spanish media reported that he will move to a elite club Chongqing Dangdai Lifan of Chinese Super League. The Chinese club also said that Iniesta wouldn't be joining "as a player" but left the door open to future cooperation with the midfielder, who has promotional and marketing links with the city. "Our club will never violate the development prospects of Chinese football and we are determined to make due contributions to the healthy development of Chinese football," a statement said. It added: "The other sports industry sections of our club's controlling shareholder have in-depth cooperation with Mr. Iniesta in sports brokerage, sports marketing, and youth training and education. "We don't rule out that in the future there may be more in-depth cooperation between the two sides in the Chinese market, but this does not mean that Mr. Iniesta will join the club as a player." Spanish media reported that the Barcelona captain could now be headed for Japan or Australia.

Chinese Super League club Chongqing Lifan denies Iniesta move

With the La Liga title already in the bag, Barcelona still wants to win Sunday's Clasico meeting with Real Madrid and preserve their unbeaten record in the campaign, coach Ernesto Valverde said on Saturday.

“A Clasico is a Clasico and at the end of the day it’s an important game in the season,” Valverde told a news conference.

“Luckily for us, we’re champions already. Obviously, we want to win, irrelevant of the table -- and they will too, given the situation and our rivalry.

“They’ll come with the idea of ending our unbeaten streak and hopefully it’ll be a good game."

Barca sealed the La Liga crown with a 4-2 win at Deportivo La Coruna last Sunday, meaning pride is all that is at stake when they face third-placed Real at the Nou Camp.

“I wish all Clasicos had a decaffeinated flavour because of the fact we were already champions," said Valverde. "Maybe observers would be more up for it if the gap was just one point and there was more at play, but I’m happy the way it is.”

Valverde played down Real's decision not to give Barca a guard of honour as champions, as is traditional in Spain.

Real coach Zinedine Zidane told a news conference earlier on Saturday: "We, with respect, won't do it for them because they didn't," referring to Barca's decision not to give their rivals a guard of honour at the Dec. 23 Clasico after they won the Club World Cup.

“We’ve spoken a lot about this,” Valverde said. “It’s something that, for all the talking that’s gone on about it, will not have any importance, I’m sure of it. I think it’s fine, and that’s that. We’re not going to give it any importance.

“I don’t have any doubt that tomorrow we’ll see the best two teams possible on behalf of both Barca and Real Madrid,” he added.

Sunday will be the final time that Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta faces arch-rivals Real, having confirmed his departure at the end of the season.

“I know that people are talking about it because tomorrow’s game is so important but it’s not his last game," Valverde said.

“We’ve got three games left with him and the important one will be the last one he plays.”

“A Clasico is a Clasico and at the end of the day it’s an important game in the season,” Valverde told a news conference

With the La Liga title already in the bag, Barcelona still wants to win Sunday's Clasico meeting with Real Madrid and preserve their unbeaten record in the campaign, coach Ernesto Valverde said on Saturday. “A Clasico is a Clasico and at the end of the day it’s an important game in the season,” Valverde told a news conference. “Luckily for us, we’re champions already. Obviously, we want to win, irrelevant of the table -- and they will too, given the situation and our rivalry. “They’ll come with the idea of ending our unbeaten streak and hopefully it’ll be a good game." Barca sealed the La Liga crown with a 4-2 win at Deportivo La Coruna last Sunday, meaning pride is all that is at stake when they face third-placed Real at the Nou Camp. “I wish all Clasicos had a decaffeinated flavour because of the fact we were already champions," said Valverde. "Maybe observers would be more up for it if the gap was just one point and there was more at play, but I’m happy the way it is.” Valverde played down Real's decision not to give Barca a guard of honour as champions, as is traditional in Spain. Real coach Zinedine Zidane told a news conference earlier on Saturday: "We, with respect, won't do it for them because they didn't," referring to Barca's decision not to give their rivals a guard of honour at the Dec. 23 Clasico after they won the Club World Cup. “We’ve spoken a lot about this,” Valverde said. “It’s something that, for all the talking that’s gone on about it, will not have any importance, I’m sure of it. I think it’s fine, and that’s that. We’re not going to give it any importance. “I don’t have any doubt that tomorrow we’ll see the best two teams possible on behalf of both Barca and Real Madrid,” he added. Sunday will be the final time that Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta faces arch-rivals Real, having confirmed his departure at the end of the season. “I know that people are talking about it because tomorrow’s game is so important but it’s not his last game," Valverde said. “We’ve got three games left with him and the important one will be the last one he plays.”

Barcelona want to preserve unbeaten record when they meet Real Madrid in Clasico

The backbone of FC Barcelona, Andres Iniesta has announced on Friday that he will leave the&nbsp;club at the end of the season.

Barcelona captain Iniesta has spent all of his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 31 trophies and it is expected that the count will increase to 32 as Barca will clinch the Liga title on Sunday at Deportivo La Coruna.

From past few months, there were speculations that 33-year old might leave Barca and Spanish media reported that he will move to Chinese Super League.

On Friday, Iniesta addressed a press conference and with teary eyes, he said that he will leave Barcelona. The Spain international broke down in tears at Barcelona's training ground with all his teammates present and a packed press room burst into applause when he finished his opening statement.

As per the media reports, Iniesta will join a CSL giant Chongqing Dangdai Lifan.

Recently, Barcelona won the Spanish King's Cup and Iniesta was crying in the concluding minutes.

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&nbsp;

Andres Iniesta has announced on Friday that he will leave the club at the end of the season

The backbone of FC Barcelona, Andres Iniesta has announced on Friday that he will leave the club at the end of the season. Barcelona captain Iniesta has spent all of his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 31 trophies and it is expected that the count will increase to 32 as Barca will clinch the Liga title on Sunday at Deportivo La Coruna. From past few months, there were speculations that 33-year old might leave Barca and Spanish media reported that he will move to Chinese Super League. On Friday, Iniesta addressed a press conference and with teary eyes, he said that he will leave Barcelona. The Spain international broke down in tears at Barcelona's training ground with all his teammates present and a packed press room burst into applause when he finished his opening statement. As per the media reports, Iniesta will join a CSL giant Chongqing Dangdai Lifan. Recently, Barcelona won the Spanish King's Cup and Iniesta was crying in the concluding minutes. ×

Watch: End of an era as Iniesta says 'goodbye' to FC Barcelona

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane praised Barcelona captain&nbspAndres Iniesta when he announced to leave FC Barcelona at the end of the season.

Barcelona captain Iniesta has spent all of his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 31 trophies and it is expected that the count will increase to 32 as Barca will clinch the Liga title on Sunday at Deportivo La Coruna.

In a recent media interaction, Zidane said that Iniesta deserved to win the Ballon d'Or in 2010 when Spain won the World Cup.

In the finals, Iniesta scored the only goal when they beat the Netherlands to lift the trophy for the first time.

Manchester City boss also hailed Spain mid-fielders and wished him good luck for the future.

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In the finals of FIFA World Cup, 2010 Iniesta scored for Spain the only goal when they beat the Netherlands to lift the trophy for the first time

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane praised Barcelona captain&nbspAndres Iniesta when he announced to leave FC Barcelona at the end of the season. Barcelona captain Iniesta has spent all of his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 31 trophies and it is expected that the count will increase to 32 as Barca will clinch the Liga title on Sunday at Deportivo La Coruna. In a recent media interaction, Zidane said that Iniesta deserved to win the Ballon d'Or in 2010 when Spain won the World Cup. In the finals, Iniesta scored the only goal when they beat the Netherlands to lift the trophy for the first time. Manchester City boss also hailed Spain mid-fielders and wished him good luck for the future. ×

Andres Iniesta deserved Ballon d'Or in 2010, says Zinedine Zidane

Andres Iniesta has announced on Friday that he will leave Spanish club FC Barcelona at the end of the season. From past few months, there were speculations that 33-year old might leave Barca and Spanish media reported that he will move to Chinese Super League.

Barcelona captain Iniesta has spent all of his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 31 trophies and it is expected that the count will increase to 32 as Barca will clinch the Liga title on Sunday at Deportivo La Coruna.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola hailed 33-year old Iniesta and wished him the "best for the future" during a press conference and said that Barcelona's recent trophy-laden history wouldn't have been possible without Andres Iniesta.

"I could say three minutes about what Andres Iniesta means in the world of football, not just in Barcelona. And I think he's another part of the history that Barcelona live in the last 15 to 20 years, it would not have been possible (for them) without him," said City boss Guardiola.

Guardiola, who played alongside his Spanish compatriot and then managed Iniesta at the Camp Nou, paid tribute to his former colleague who is widely expected to move to China at the end of the season.

Guardiola, who played alongside his Spanish compatriot and then managed Iniesta at the Camp Nou, paid tribute to his former colleague who is widely expected to move to China at the end of the season

Andres Iniesta has announced on Friday that he will leave Spanish club FC Barcelona at the end of the season. From past few months, there were speculations that 33-year old might leave Barca and Spanish media reported that he will move to Chinese Super League. Barcelona captain Iniesta has spent all of his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 31 trophies and it is expected that the count will increase to 32 as Barca will clinch the Liga title on Sunday at Deportivo La Coruna. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola hailed 33-year old Iniesta and wished him the "best for the future" during a press conference and said that Barcelona's recent trophy-laden history wouldn't have been possible without Andres Iniesta. "I could say three minutes about what Andres Iniesta means in the world of football, not just in Barcelona. And I think he's another part of the history that Barcelona live in the last 15 to 20 years, it would not have been possible (for them) without him," said City boss Guardiola. Guardiola, who played alongside his Spanish compatriot and then managed Iniesta at the Camp Nou, paid tribute to his former colleague who is widely expected to move to China at the end of the season.

City boss Pep Guardiola wishes Iniesta 'best for the future'

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-messi-strikes-twice-as-barcelona-crush-chelsea-35854">FC Barcelona</a> captain, Andres Iniesta revealed a shocker that he has an offer to move to a Chinese Super League club.

He also mentioned that by the end of April he will make a decision on his future.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-messi-strikes-twice-as-barcelona-crush-chelsea-35854">Barcelona thrashed Chelsea</a> to reach the quarter-finals of UEFA Champions League.

The happiness of Barca&#39;s victory was taken away for a while when Iniesta admitted his future may lie elsewhere.

The Spaniard had recently signed a lifetime contract with FC Barcelona but contrary to that, he said, &quot;Before April 30 I have to make the decision whether I&#39;m still in Barcelona or I&#39;m going to China. I have to assess what is best for me and for the club.&quot;

He has won the Champions League four times and La Liga eight times wearing Barca jersey featuring in more than 400 games.

He also mentioned, &quot;It is a decision that I will communicate to the club first and then you will find out. I will make a decision before April 30. It will be the most honest for me and for the club.&quot;&nbsp;

He has been linked with Tianjin Quanjian, although the Chinese Super League club declared the rumours &quot;false&quot; this week and threatened legal action to stamp them out.

On Iniesta&#39;s shocking revelation coach Ernesto Valverde responded, &quot;It is a very personal decision. It is he who must decide it. We all have our own reasons and I am sure he will decide what is best for him.&quot;

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"I will make a decision before April 30. It will be the most honest for me and for the club," says Iniesta

FC Barcelona captain, Andres Iniesta revealed a shocker that he has an offer to move to a Chinese Super League club. He also mentioned that by the end of April he will make a decision on his future. Barcelona thrashed Chelsea to reach the quarter-finals of UEFA Champions League. The happiness of Barca's victory was taken away for a while when Iniesta admitted his future may lie elsewhere. The Spaniard had recently signed a lifetime contract with FC Barcelona but contrary to that, he said, "Before April 30 I have to make the decision whether I'm still in Barcelona or I'm going to China. I have to assess what is best for me and for the club." He has won the Champions League four times and La Liga eight times wearing Barca jersey featuring in more than 400 games. He also mentioned, "It is a decision that I will communicate to the club first and then you will find out. I will make a decision before April 30. It will be the most honest for me and for the club." He has been linked with Tianjin Quanjian, although the Chinese Super League club declared the rumours "false" this week and threatened legal action to stamp them out. On Iniesta's shocking revelation coach Ernesto Valverde responded, "It is a very personal decision. It is he who must decide it. We all have our own reasons and I am sure he will decide what is best for him."

Andres Iniesta might leave FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona will host Chelsea in a decisive second leg clash of the of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 at their home ground Camp Nou on Tuesday night/ Wednesday morning. The match will start at 1:15 pm local time.

Ahead of the match, Barca coach&nbsp;Ernesto Valverde talked to media about second led&#39;s clash, he said, &quot;I expect a similar rival to the one we faced during the first leg, with all of their virtues and with all the danger attached to them.&quot;

He further said that Chelsea&#39;s &#39;qualities&#39; are worrying him he said,&nbsp;&quot;We are worried about the danger Chelsea can put us under because they have a great counter-attack and strategy.&quot;

&quot;I am worried because of that statistic, but even more so because of Chelsea&#39;s qualities,&quot; Barca&nbsp;manager showed his concerns.

FC Barcelona squad news:

Andres Iniesta was spotted training so fans are expecting his return in the big clash as he suffered a hamstring injury.

Lionel Messi is back into the action as he missed his last match due to the birth of his third baby.

Philippe Coutinho won&#39;t he is ineligible for the match having previously played for Liverpool in the group stage of the competition before the transfer.

Nelson Semedo and midfielder Denis Su&aacute;rez are also both out with injuries.

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???? Squad list 
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bar%C3%A7aChelsea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bar&ccedil;aChelsea</a> <a href="https://t.co/7YgKzKnl1U">pic.twitter.com/7YgKzKnl1U</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/973631752395808776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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FC Barcelona will host Chelsea in a decisive second leg clash of the of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 at Camp Nou

FC Barcelona will host Chelsea in a decisive second leg clash of the of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 at their home ground Camp Nou on Tuesday night/ Wednesday morning. The match will start at 1:15 pm local time. Ahead of the match, Barca coach Ernesto Valverde talked to media about second led's clash, he said, "I expect a similar rival to the one we faced during the first leg, with all of their virtues and with all the danger attached to them." He further said that Chelsea's 'qualities' are worrying him he said, "We are worried about the danger Chelsea can put us under because they have a great counter-attack and strategy." "I am worried because of that statistic, but even more so because of Chelsea's qualities," Barca manager showed his concerns. FC Barcelona squad news: Andres Iniesta was spotted training so fans are expecting his return in the big clash as he suffered a hamstring injury. Lionel Messi is back into the action as he missed his last match due to the birth of his third baby. Philippe Coutinho won't he is ineligible for the match having previously played for Liverpool in the group stage of the competition before the transfer. Nelson Semedo and midfielder Denis Suárez are also both out with injuries. ???? Squad list ???????? #BarçaChelsea pic.twitter.com/7YgKzKnl1U — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 13, 2018 ×

Barca coach Valverde worried ahead of Chelsea clash

&quot;In the first leg, we made a mistake we paid a lot because of this mistake&quot; - Antonio Conte, Chelsea manager

Remember what the mistake was, see the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-barcelona-chelsea-willian-lionel-messi-iniesta-chelseabarca-football-soccer-33540">highlights</a> of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-barcelona-chelsea-willian-lionel-messi-iniesta-chelseabarca-football-soccer-33540">last clash</a>:&nbsp;

Conte is talking about the loophole in Chelsea&#39;s defence when Iniesta&#39;s beautiful assist to Messi equalised the score in the 75the minute to relax the Barcelona fans and followers.

FC Barcelona will host Chelsea in a decisive second leg clash of the of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 at their home ground Camp Nou on Tuesday night/ Wednesday morning. The match will start at 1:15 pm local time.

The nailbiting first leg tied 1-1 and now both the teams are ready to carry forward the clash tonight. The winner of today&#39;s game will enter the quarterfinals of Champions League.

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Tomorrow is a big day! ???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bar%C3%A7aChelsea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bar&ccedil;aChelsea</a> <a href="https://t.co/e4zYfi8f88">pic.twitter.com/e4zYfi8f88</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/973688269048180736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Antonio Conte-led Chelsea has a chance only if something extraordinary happens. In a recent interview, he said, &quot;The final result of the first leg, give(s) a great advantage to Barcelona, but at the same time I think we know very well the philosophy of Barcelona and for sure they want to try to play their football tomorrow, to try to score and to try to win the game.&quot;

He further added, &quot;When you play against Barcelona, against a team that I consider, Barcelona, one of the best in the world.&quot;

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❗ Iniesta is included in the squad for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bar%C3%A7aChelsea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bar&ccedil;aChelsea</a> 
All the details ???? <a href="https://t.co/dMDd6ioYhI">https://t.co/dMDd6ioYhI</a> ???? <a href="https://t.co/Y6dT9et0V2">pic.twitter.com/Y6dT9et0V2</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/973642412202569730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On the other hand, Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde said, &quot;We are worried about the danger Chelsea can put us under because they have a great counter-attack and strategy.&quot;

&quot;They have so many virtues, players such as (Eden) Hazard or William who are able to shoot at goal from anywhere on the pitch,&quot; he further added.

He mentioned about Chelsea&#39;s qualities, &quot;I am worried because of that statistic, but even more so because of Chelsea&#39;s qualities.&quot;

With Messi in their line-up, Barcelona has a superior record against nearly every opponent they have faced in Europe, but that is not the case against Chelsea as the &#39;Blues&#39; are unbeaten in their last eight matches.

Squad news:

Chelsea:

Blues have no injury issues and back with Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger as he missed the last clash against Crystal Palace.

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Spirits high at the Camp Nou! ???? <a href="https://t.co/F9IlCGPPm9">pic.twitter.com/F9IlCGPPm9</a>
&mdash; Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/973626363021324289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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FC Barcelona:

Andres Iniesta was spotted training so fans are expecting his return in the big clash as he suffered a hamstring injury.

Lionel Messi is back into the action as he missed his last match due to the birth of his third baby.

Philippe Coutinho won&#39;t he is ineligible for the match having previously played for Liverpool in the group stage of the competition before the transfer.

Nelson Semedo and midfielder Denis Su&aacute;rez are also both out with injuries.

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???? Squad list 
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bar%C3%A7aChelsea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bar&ccedil;aChelsea</a> <a href="https://t.co/7YgKzKnl1U">pic.twitter.com/7YgKzKnl1U</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/973631752395808776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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With Messi in their line-up, Barcelona has a superior record against nearly every opponent they have faced in Europe, but that is not the case against Chelsea as the 'Blues' are unbeaten in their last eight matches

"In the first leg, we made a mistake we paid a lot because of this mistake" - Antonio Conte, Chelsea manager Remember what the mistake was, see the highlights of the last clash: Conte is talking about the loophole in Chelsea's defence when Iniesta's beautiful assist to Messi equalised the score in the 75the minute to relax the Barcelona fans and followers. FC Barcelona will host Chelsea in a decisive second leg clash of the of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 at their home ground Camp Nou on Tuesday night/ Wednesday morning. The match will start at 1:15 pm local time. The nailbiting first leg tied 1-1 and now both the teams are ready to carry forward the clash tonight. The winner of today's game will enter the quarterfinals of Champions League. Tomorrow is a big day! ???????? #BarçaChelsea pic.twitter.com/e4zYfi8f88 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 13, 2018 × Antonio Conte-led Chelsea has a chance only if something extraordinary happens. In a recent interview, he said, "The final result of the first leg, give(s) a great advantage to Barcelona, but at the same time I think we know very well the philosophy of Barcelona and for sure they want to try to play their football tomorrow, to try to score and to try to win the game." He further added, "When you play against Barcelona, against a team that I consider, Barcelona, one of the best in the world." ❗ Iniesta is included in the squad for #BarçaChelsea All the details ???? https://t.co/dMDd6ioYhI ???? pic.twitter.com/Y6dT9et0V2 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 13, 2018 × On the other hand, Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde said, "We are worried about the danger Chelsea can put us under because they have a great counter-attack and strategy." "They have so many virtues, players such as (Eden) Hazard or William who are able to shoot at goal from anywhere on the pitch," he further added. He mentioned about Chelsea's qualities, "I am worried because of that statistic, but even more so because of Chelsea's qualities." With Messi in their line-up, Barcelona has a superior record against nearly every opponent they have faced in Europe, but that is not the case against Chelsea as the 'Blues' are unbeaten in their last eight matches. Squad news: Chelsea: Blues have no injury issues and back with Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger as he missed the last clash against Crystal Palace. Spirits high at the Camp Nou! ???? pic.twitter.com/F9IlCGPPm9 — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) March 13, 2018 × FC Barcelona: Andres Iniesta was spotted training so fans are expecting his return in the big clash as he suffered a hamstring injury. Lionel Messi is back into the action as he missed his last match due to the birth of his third baby. Philippe Coutinho won't he is ineligible for the match having previously played for Liverpool in the group stage of the competition before the transfer. Nelson Semedo and midfielder Denis Suárez are also both out with injuries. ???? Squad list ???????? #BarçaChelsea pic.twitter.com/7YgKzKnl1U — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 13, 2018 ×

Champions League preview: Barcelona to host Chelsea at Camp Nou

Lionel Messi shrugged off his recent woes from the penalty spot with a decisive 94th-minute spot-kick to move Barcelona top of La Liga with a pulsating 3-2 win at Valencia on Saturday.

Messi netted twice and his opener midway through the first half was allowed to stand despite Luis Suarez straying into an offside position.

However, it was Valencia who were up in arms at the officials when Messi opened the scoring on 22 minutes.

The Argentine&#39;s fifth goal in three games since returning from a groin injury sneaked in at Alves&#39;s near post, but the Brazilian goalkeeper had been distracted by the presence of the offside Suarez jumping over Messi&#39;s effort.

&quot;It is lamentable, absolutely lamentable that refereeing decisions prevented Valencia from taking a point or more from this match,&quot; Valencia sporting director Jesus Garcia Pitarch told BeIN Sports Spain.

Valencia hit back with two goals in six second-half minutes through on-loan Barca winger Munir El Haddadi and Rodrigo.

Valencia&#39;s lead lasted just six minutes despite Alves&#39;s best efforts as Suarez pounced to smash home a rebound after Ivan Rakitic&#39;s powerful header had been saved by the Valencia stopper.

Barca swarmed forward in search of a winner, but had to wait until deep into stoppage time when Messi played in Suarez and he was clearly taken out from behind by Abdennour. Messi stroked home his 14th goal of the season to secure a vital three points in the title race.

A bad-tempered encounter spilled over after Messi&#39;s strike, though, as Suarez and Neymar were hit by a plastic bottle thrown by the Valencia fans as Barca celebrated.

The victory moves the champions a point clear of Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, who face Sevilla and Athletic Bilbao respectively on Sunday.

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But as Barcelona celebrated, a teary-eyed captain Andres Iniesta was carried from the field following a knee injury, possibly ruled out for six to eight weeks. (AFP)
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However, the dramatic victory came at a cost for Barca as a tearful Andres Iniesta suffered ligament damage in his right knee that could keep him out for several months.

The game was only 14 minutes old when Iniesta was carried from the field in tears holding his right knee, which buckled under a heavy challenge from Enzo Perez.

Barca confirmed Iniesta suffered lateral collateral ligament damage, but said further tests would be carried out to determine the exact extent of the injury.

(AFP) 
&nbsp;

Messi, who had struggled from the penalty spot in recent seasons, netted twice earning crucial points to move Barca to the top spot

Lionel Messi shrugged off his recent woes from the penalty spot with a decisive 94th-minute spot-kick to move Barcelona top of La Liga with a pulsating 3-2 win at Valencia on Saturday. Messi netted twice and his opener midway through the first half was allowed to stand despite Luis Suarez straying into an offside position. However, it was Valencia who were up in arms at the officials when Messi opened the scoring on 22 minutes. The Argentine's fifth goal in three games since returning from a groin injury sneaked in at Alves's near post, but the Brazilian goalkeeper had been distracted by the presence of the offside Suarez jumping over Messi's effort. "It is lamentable, absolutely lamentable that refereeing decisions prevented Valencia from taking a point or more from this match," Valencia sporting director Jesus Garcia Pitarch told BeIN Sports Spain. Valencia hit back with two goals in six second-half minutes through on-loan Barca winger Munir El Haddadi and Rodrigo. Valencia's lead lasted just six minutes despite Alves's best efforts as Suarez pounced to smash home a rebound after Ivan Rakitic's powerful header had been saved by the Valencia stopper. Barca swarmed forward in search of a winner, but had to wait until deep into stoppage time when Messi played in Suarez and he was clearly taken out from behind by Abdennour. Messi stroked home his 14th goal of the season to secure a vital three points in the title race. A bad-tempered encounter spilled over after Messi's strike, though, as Suarez and Neymar were hit by a plastic bottle thrown by the Valencia fans as Barca celebrated. The victory moves the champions a point clear of Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, who face Sevilla and Athletic Bilbao respectively on Sunday. But as Barcelona celebrated, a teary-eyed captain Andres Iniesta was carried from the field following a knee injury, possibly ruled out for six to eight weeks. (AFP) × However, the dramatic victory came at a cost for Barca as a tearful Andres Iniesta suffered ligament damage in his right knee that could keep him out for several months. The game was only 14 minutes old when Iniesta was carried from the field in tears holding his right knee, which buckled under a heavy challenge from Enzo Perez. Barca confirmed Iniesta suffered lateral collateral ligament damage, but said further tests would be carried out to determine the exact extent of the injury. (AFP)

La Liga: Messi's penalty pushes Barcelona ahead of Valencia

Defending European champions, Spain booked their place in the last 16 round of Euro 2016 on Friday with a convincing 3-0 win against Turkey in Nice. 
 
Vicente del Bosque&#39;s men bossed the Group D tie from the kickoff, with a double by Juventus&#39; Alvaro Morato and a first competitive international goal from Nolito sealing a comfortable win. 
 
&quot;We showed our winning mentality and great team spirit here tonight,&quot; said Andres Iniesta, who was awarded man-of-the-match. 
 
&quot;It depends on ourselves how far we go here, the feelings we have are very positive at the moment,&quot; he said. 
 
Turkey could also face UEFA sanctions after sections of their support lit flares and threw firecrackers onto the pitch at full-time. 
 
Spain, aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive Euros title, can seal top spot in the pool with just a draw against Croatia in their final group game on Tuesday. 
 
Turkey need to beat the Czech Republic in their final match and hope other results go their way to have any chance of progressing as one of the four best third-placed sides from the six groups. 
 
&quot;We have completed our first objective, to qualify for the next round, we controlled the game almost for the whole 90 minutes and we scored goals, so it was perfect,&quot; Del Bosque said. 
 
&quot;But we haven&#39;t won anything yet, we are on a good path but there is still a long way to go,&quot; he added. 
 
Before the game Turkey coach Fatih Terim had called for more &quot;fight&quot; from his side to keep their Euro 2016 hopes alive after an out-of-sorts display against Croatia on Sunday, and for a while his players responded. 
 
Sitting deep and launching the occasional counter-attack, Hakan Calhanoglu roused Turkey&#39;s raucous fans by sending a free-kick just over David de Gea&#39;s crossbar on 25 minutes. 
 
From the half-hour though, Spain moved up a gear, starving Turkey of possession and, with Iniesta pulling the strings in midfield, carving out chance after chance. 
 
And Terim lambasted his players for not giving their all for the cause. 
 
&quot;Today our national team threw in the towel, I didn&#39;t like it,&quot; he said. 
 
&quot;Spain are a special team, one of the strongest sides in the tournament, the first 30 minutes was ok but afterwards we didn&#39;t play well,&quot; he said. 
 
First Sergio Busquets teed up Nolito for a right-footed curler just wide of left post. 
 
Then the busy Celta Vigo winger scuffed wide under pressure after a cutback from Juanfran. 
 
On 34 minutes, though, Nolito turned provider to greater effect. 
 
Looking up, he spotted Morato unmarked in front of goal and curled a pass over the defence to the marksman whose header gave Spain the lead. 
 
Three minutes later, Vicente del Bosque&#39;s men went two-up, this time with Nolito as the finisher. 
 
A chip into the box by Cesc Fabregas should not have reached its target but Mehmet Topal, off-balance, headed backward to the lurking Nolito who half-volleyed on the turn past Volkan Babacan. 
 
After the break, despite some brief flurries of Turkish resistance, Spain quickly added a third on 48 minutes. 
 
Iniesta, immaculate throughout, threaded a ball through the Turkish defence to Jordi Alba who squared to Morato for his second of the night, a tap-in through Babacan&#39;s legs. 
 
It was all too easy after that for the two-time defending champions. 
 
Substitute Bruno Soriano nearly scored a fourth midway through the half, forcing a Babacan to tip round the post. 
 
Then two minutes from the end he ballooned over when well-placed. 
 
It was another desperately disappointing day for Turkey who had come into the tournament in fine form. 
 
Individual mistakes caused at least one of the goals, said the 62-year-old Terim who guided Turkey to the European Championship semi-final in 2008. 
 
&quot;One of them was unbelievable, even the smallest chances you can&#39;t give Spain, otherwise there is no way to resist them&quot;. 
 
Fancied by some as dark horses to at least escape the group, they didn&#39;t manage a shot on target, while their fans even took to booing their star player Barcelona&#39;s Arda Turan late on. 
(AFP)&nbsp;

They're aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive Euro title

Defending European champions, Spain booked their place in the last 16 round of Euro 2016 on Friday with a convincing 3-0 win against Turkey in Nice. Vicente del Bosque's men bossed the Group D tie from the kickoff, with a double by Juventus' Alvaro Morato and a first competitive international goal from Nolito sealing a comfortable win. "We showed our winning mentality and great team spirit here tonight," said Andres Iniesta, who was awarded man-of-the-match. "It depends on ourselves how far we go here, the feelings we have are very positive at the moment," he said. Turkey could also face UEFA sanctions after sections of their support lit flares and threw firecrackers onto the pitch at full-time. Spain, aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive Euros title, can seal top spot in the pool with just a draw against Croatia in their final group game on Tuesday. Turkey need to beat the Czech Republic in their final match and hope other results go their way to have any chance of progressing as one of the four best third-placed sides from the six groups. "We have completed our first objective, to qualify for the next round, we controlled the game almost for the whole 90 minutes and we scored goals, so it was perfect," Del Bosque said. "But we haven't won anything yet, we are on a good path but there is still a long way to go," he added. Before the game Turkey coach Fatih Terim had called for more "fight" from his side to keep their Euro 2016 hopes alive after an out-of-sorts display against Croatia on Sunday, and for a while his players responded. Sitting deep and launching the occasional counter-attack, Hakan Calhanoglu roused Turkey's raucous fans by sending a free-kick just over David de Gea's crossbar on 25 minutes. From the half-hour though, Spain moved up a gear, starving Turkey of possession and, with Iniesta pulling the strings in midfield, carving out chance after chance. And Terim lambasted his players for not giving their all for the cause. "Today our national team threw in the towel, I didn't like it," he said. "Spain are a special team, one of the strongest sides in the tournament, the first 30 minutes was ok but afterwards we didn't play well," he said. First Sergio Busquets teed up Nolito for a right-footed curler just wide of left post. Then the busy Celta Vigo winger scuffed wide under pressure after a cutback from Juanfran. On 34 minutes, though, Nolito turned provider to greater effect. Looking up, he spotted Morato unmarked in front of goal and curled a pass over the defence to the marksman whose header gave Spain the lead. Three minutes later, Vicente del Bosque's men went two-up, this time with Nolito as the finisher. A chip into the box by Cesc Fabregas should not have reached its target but Mehmet Topal, off-balance, headed backward to the lurking Nolito who half-volleyed on the turn past Volkan Babacan. After the break, despite some brief flurries of Turkish resistance, Spain quickly added a third on 48 minutes. Iniesta, immaculate throughout, threaded a ball through the Turkish defence to Jordi Alba who squared to Morato for his second of the night, a tap-in through Babacan's legs. It was all too easy after that for the two-time defending champions. Substitute Bruno Soriano nearly scored a fourth midway through the half, forcing a Babacan to tip round the post. Then two minutes from the end he ballooned over when well-placed. It was another desperately disappointing day for Turkey who had come into the tournament in fine form. Individual mistakes caused at least one of the goals, said the 62-year-old Terim who guided Turkey to the European Championship semi-final in 2008. "One of them was unbelievable, even the smallest chances you can't give Spain, otherwise there is no way to resist them". Fancied by some as dark horses to at least escape the group, they didn't manage a shot on target, while their fans even took to booing their star player Barcelona's Arda Turan late on. (AFP)

Euro: Spain walk all over Turkey, then cruise to last 16 with 3-0 win

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